Bush: 'A joyous holiday to all Americans'

WASHINGTON (CNN) --Despite his disappointment that Congress did not pass an economic stimulus package before the holiday recess, President Bush Saturday praised the work of the legislative body and sent holiday greetings to a nation still stung by the grief and shock of September 11.

"This Christmas comes just months after a great national loss," the president said in his weekly radio address. "We find ourselves appreciating more than ever the things that matter most -- our families our friends and our faith. We count our blessings, and we remember all those who feel loss, separation and need."

Bush noted Congress' passage of an education bill, tax-relief measures and "strong action to support our military, protect our homeland, and make our airways more secure."

"This year now ending saw a few acts of terrible evil," Bush said. "It also saw many more acts of courage and kindness and love."

Those acts, he said, reflect that "a light shines in the darkness, and the darkness shall not overcome it."

Bush ended his remarks with a wish to all Americans for "a joyous holiday."

"May the peace and goodwill of the season fill every heart and warm every home," he said